This chapter provides an overview of the current and estimated impacts for 2021 and 2022 of the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean and discuss possible policy responses, focusing on food systems. This is a preliminary analysis, considering that at the time of this writing the pandemic is still evolving, with not clear resolution in the short term. The chapter discusses the evolution in 2020 of some key variables and policy responses. It also presents some simulations for 2021 and 2022, focusing mainly on diets. It is shown that LAC countries have been hit hard by the pandemic. Not only health and the economy have been affected but also the democratic fabric of the countries in the region, already frayed from the low economic growth of previous years, has been weakened further. The chapter argues that it would not be possible for the countries in the region to emerge from the current crisis individually. A concerted effort of collective action is needed, considering that most of the problems affecting the region exceed each country separately. It is then argued that the Summit of the Americas, programmed for a yet undefined date in 2022 with the United States as the host country, presents a crucial opportunity to agree on a common program for growth, environmental health, food security, social well-being, and strengthening democracy. The Americas need a joint vision for peace, prosperity and democracy. The challenges that LAC now faces are too deeply ingrained in the region's history, and the threats they present to global democracy, food security, and environmental stability are too great for half measures.
